The fundamental issues of benevolence-based theory in corporate Confucianism
TANG Xiongshan
Abstract：The fundamental issues in the benevolence-centric theory of corporate confucianism concern the definition,components,levels,and status of Ren(benevolence).According to relevant discussions in pre-Qin Confucian texts,Ren is love,means the Way.It is the intrinsic nature defining human beings,and it constitutes both the ontological reality and the value foundation of humanity.As an ontological essence,Ren comprises components such as:compassion(ci),filial piety(xiao),fraternal respect(ti/di),friendship(you),loyalty(zhong),generosity(hui),reverence(gong),respect(jing),sense of shame(xiu e zhi xin),sense of deference(ci rang zhi xin),and sense of right and wrong(shi fei zhi xin).Each represents one aspect of Ren,with distinct functions among them.Structurally,Ren manifests at four levels:individuality(selfhood),communality,universality,and transcendence.Within the core principles of corporate management,Ren(benevolence),Yi(righteousness),Li(propriety),Zhi(wisdom),and Xin(integrity)work together and form an organic whole,while Ren serves as the foundation for Yi,Li,Zhi,and Xin.
Keywords：corporate confucianismbenevolence-based theorydefinition of benevolencecomponents of benevolencelevels of benevolence
Publication Date：2025-09-15
Online Publishing Date：2025-10-15(First online date of this platform, not the publication date of the document)
Pages：9( 29-37 )